

Blown for Good: Scientology Exposed
Marc Headley & Claire Headley
Marc Headley worked at Scientology’s secret desert compound, which houses all Scientology management, for 15 years. The 500-acre property is located deep in the California desert. The local townspeople were told lectures and films were made there. But is that all that was happening? It is the location of a multi-million dollar home for L. Ron Hubbard, built two decades after his death. It is the home of Scientology’s current leader, David Miscavige. So what really happens at the Int Base? Are the stories on the internet true? How does Scientology conduct management of its day-to-day operations? Could stories of armed guards, weapons, staff beatings, and razor wire fences be true? If so, how could a facility like this exist in modern-day America? Hundreds of staff tried to escape over the years. Some succeeded but were never seen or heard of again, and most failed. Why were people kept here? What really went on at the headquarters of Scientology? This is the story of what happened behind the Iron Curtain of Scientology.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 25, 2024 • 1h 8min
Unmasking Scientology's Secrets: Gift-Giving, Freeloader Debts, and David Miscavige's Shadowy Reign Scientology Q&A #2 w/ Claire & Marc Headley
Send us a textEver wondered if David Miscavige gifts presents to Sea Org members or how fabricated reports come into play in Scientology? Get ready for an eye-opening Q&A session where we address these burning questions and much more. From our personal stories of receiving gifts—including a memorable phone—to Claire's unwavering support for Manchester United, this episode is packed with engaging anecdotes and surprising revelations. We also demystify the concept of unenforceable freeloader debts and how Scientology tries to leverage them against former members, with a special teaser for an upcoming deep dive into our own freeloader bills.Claire opens up about her aspiration to write a book and a missed opportunity to deliver a TED Talk due to the pandemic. Our conversation takes a serious turn as we discuss ongoing harassment by Scientology, the bizarre "running program," and the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of Shelley Miscavige's mother, Flo. Claire also breaks down the manipulative tactics of Scientology auditing, which often shifts blame onto the individual for any negative experiences, and shares how ex-Scientologists can regain good standing within the organization.In a lighter segment, we touch on the humorous side of Scientology, including an amusing misunderstanding where L. Ron Hubbard was mistaken for Colonel Sanders. Learn about the origin of the Mike Rinder bobblehead and its current role in raising funds for the Aftermath Foundation. We also share insights on the humor in the Riff Trax version of "Battlefield Earth" and the troubling practices within Scientology's Narconon rehab centers. Through personal anecdotes, from Marc's dramatic escape to the lack of affection between David and Shelly Miscavige, we paint a vivid picture of life inside the Sea Org and Scientology's hostile stance towards psychologists. Join us for a captivating episode that blends humor, personal stories, and critical insights.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Jun 20, 2024 • 1h 3min
Unmasking Scientology's Surveillance Tactics: Personal Trauma, Family Disconnection, and Suri Cruise's HQ Visit - Scientology Q&A #1 w/ Claire & Marc Headley
Send us a textImagine suspecting that you're being watched, only to find out your worst fears are true. Join us as we, Marc and Claire Headley, recount our jaw-dropping experiences of intense surveillance after leaving Scientology. From Claire's initial suspicions to the undeniable evidence that surfaced, we reveal how key organizations like RTC played a role in our lives, and share a humorous moment involving a curious neighbor discovering our past through a TV show. This episode offers a revealing look into the invasive measures Scientology takes against those who dare to leave.Ever wondered how Scientology impacts family ties? We explore the harrowing concept of disconnection, which forces members to cut ties with their loved ones. Listen to the heartwarming story of a family who secretly read a critical book on Scientology and made a daring escape together. We also provide intriguing details about Suri Cruise's visit to Scientology's international headquarters, uncovering the truth behind the organization's attempts to present a welcoming front while avoiding grooming her as the face of Scientology.Discover the profound changes in our relationship after leaving Scientology, from the joy of simple pleasures like sharing meals to debunking bizarre beliefs like the illness-inducing Lord Xenu. We discuss the challenges faced within Scientology's walls, including restricted access to emergency services and the culture of publicizing private confessions. Our candid recounting of spy operations, lavish facilities, and smear campaigns against dissenters offers an eye-opening glimpse into the opulence and absurdity of Scientology. Ending with lighthearted banter, we hope this episode provides both an engaging and enlightening perspective on the complex world we left behind.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Jun 11, 2024 • 1h 12min
Exploring the Strange Ties Between L. Ron Hubbard and Nazi Propaganda - Marc & Mitch Make a Scientology Film #13
Send us a textEver wondered what it's like behind the scenes of Scientology’s film productions? Mitch Brisker and I, Marc Headley, are pulling back the curtain on the bizarre and intricate world of Scientology filmmaking. From working on "EM5: How to Set Up a Session and and the E-Meter" to the absurd portrayals of L. Ron Hubbard as a white savior in Africa, we reveal unfiltered stories from the frontlines. Learn about our experiences acting in these unique films, the meticulous and often oppressive quality control at the International Headquarters, and the controversial influence of Nazi propagandist Leni Riefenstahl on Hubbard's work.Join us as we recount the surreal logistics of creating film sets at Gold Base, including the hazardous conditions faced by the sets crew and even children. Discover tales of unsafe production environments built by the Rehabilitation Project Force, the drive to meet Hubbard's exacting standards, and the cultural sensitivity challenges we navigated, like editing out outdated and racist language from Hubbard's original scripts. You’ll be gripped by stories of actors like Larry Anderson and the dynamics on set, including David Miscavige's critical oversight and the peculiar bias against Scientologist actors.We also dive into the intriguing connection between Hubbard and Leni Riefenstahl, exploring how this odd historical tie influenced Scientology's technical training films. From Hubbard’s bizarre belief in his reincarnation as Cecil Rhodes to the musical plagiarism controversy involving Cirque du Soleil’s African-themed score, every chapter offers a mix of humor, intrigue, and critical reflection. This episode is an eye-opening journey into the strange and complex world of Scientology’s film productions, packed with surprising revelations and personal anecdotes.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Jun 4, 2024 • 56min
Scientology's Legal Gymnastics: Unmasking Arbitration Clauses and Dodging Accountability - Scientology Stories #44
Send us a textDo you know how Scientology is using arbitration clauses to escape accountability? Join us as Claire Headley and special guest Tony Ortega reveal the hidden mechanisms behind Scientology's arbitration practices. From derailing legal challenges to the manipulative use of arbitration clauses, we uncover the church's evolving legal strategies and the powerful attorneys driving these changes. Highlighting crucial cases like the Garcia family, we illustrate how Scientology has crafted an arbitration process that is nearly impossible for former members to navigate successfully.Listen to personal stories that lay bare the systemic biases within Scientology's arbitration system. Meet individuals like Valerie Haney and the Garcia family whose experiences expose the psychological and emotional toll of facing a skewed and oppressive process. Their stories, marked by encounters with their abusers and manipulative tactics, underscore a system rigged against anyone labeled as a "suppressive person." We draw comparisons to other flawed arbitration systems, emphasizing the absurdity and injustice perpetuated by Scientology-controlled panels.Explore the relentless legal tactics employed by Scientology to sidestep justice. From extensive procedural delays in Laura DiCrescenzo's case to David Miscavige's evasive maneuvers, this episode highlights the lengths Scientology will go to avoid accountability. Personal anecdotes and detailed analyses shed light on systemic issues that favor organizations exploiting legal loopholes. Through these discussions, we stress the urgent need for greater scrutiny and potential government intervention to protect individuals from such abuses. Don't miss this eye-opening episode that calls for justice and transparency.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

May 28, 2024 • 1h 1min
Surviving Scientology's Legal Shenanigans - Scientology Stories #43
Send us a textCaught in the crosshairs of a legal behemoth, Claire and I have weathered the storm and emerged with stories that could fill volumes. Our skirmish with Scientology's notorious legal machine is just the tip of the iceberg in this episode, as we peel back the layers on the devious tactics and prolonged warfare that the organization wields to silence its critics. From courtroom strategies to the unyielding resolve required to stand one's ground, we bring you firsthand accounts of the intricate legal battles, the exhaustion of settlement funds, and the sweet victory of speaking out without the gag of a court order.Navigating the treacherous waters of reputation management, we share a sobering tale of how Scientology's smear tactics nearly capsized our business during a pivotal financial deal. It's a candid look at how malicious online attacks can spill over into the professional realm and the critical importance of allies who see beyond the slander. We also shine a light on the enduring harassment from Scientology despite our long departure, underlining the conversation with a broader perspective on public awareness and the solidarity we've found among those who've been unjustly targeted.In the shadowy corners of Scientology, there exists a silent but significant faction of "under the radar" members—those who confide in us, sharing their stories and struggles. As we weave through these intimate revelations, we also celebrate the positive ripples our departure from Scientology has created for others still within its grip. With humor and a touch of irony, we muse on the unexpected perks of family estrangement and the peculiar dynamics it has spared us from. Buckle up for an episode that traverses the bumpy road of legal battles, the pursuit of justice, and the personal triumphs amidst the chaos of taking on a formidable foe.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

May 7, 2024 • 47min
Unraveling Scientology's Infiltration: East Grinstead's Council, Paris Org Woes, & Narconon Scrutiny - Scientology Stories #42
Send us a textScandal has struck at the heart of East Grinstead, and together with Apostate Alex, I, Claire Headley, peel back the curtain on Scientology's insidious grasp on local governance. Our latest podcast episode unveils the shocking entanglement of the controversial church within the fibers of East Grinstead Town Council. As we unpack the Daily Mail's bombshell revelations, you'll hear firsthand how 'safepointing' has become Scientology's modus operandi, transforming community ties into a strategic ploy for power. The journey to uncover these truths wasn't without resistance, as you'll learn through our personal accounts of the pushback from the council and the formidable wall of silence we've been chipping away at.The plot thickens when we turn the spotlight on the local council's dance with complicity, as we reveal the extent of their alleged collusion with Scientology's darker side. We discuss how redacted minutes and censored records are more than just bureaucratic maneuvers—they are the footprints of a council struggling to maintain an image while under the church's financial charm. The tales of personal attacks faced by critics, reminiscent of Scientology's 'fair game' tactics, illustrate a chilling reality. Our dialogue also branches out to consider the wider implications of such financial influence on local governments, from East Grinstead to the Los Angeles Police Department, and the pressing need for transparency and accountability.In a compelling segue, we turn our attention to the Paris Ideal Org's grand opening—shadowed by controversy and strikingly low turnout. The event's subdued atmosphere and David Miscavige's absence are not mere footnotes but indicators of Scientology's wavering facade of expansion. We speculate on Miscavige's current game of hide-and-seek, all while considering Scientology's potential maneuvers for the impending Paris Olympics. Wrapping up, we acknowledge the valiant efforts of global activists like Shanti Das, whose formidable work has put Narconon's questionable practices under the microscope, inspiring us all to persist in the fight for awareness and change.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Apr 30, 2024 • 23min
Daring Infiltration and Digital Defiance: Jessica Palmadessa's Crusade Against Scientology's Secrets - Scientology Stories #41
Send us a textWhen Jessica Palmadessa set out to create engaging content on Hollywood Boulevard, she never expected her social media antics would lead her into the heart of Scientology's enigmatic world. Join us as Jessica recounts her audacious attempt to enter a Scientology center with a Kanye West impersonator, a prank that quickly took a sobering turn into false accusations and wrongful police detention. Her fearless narrative isn't just about the laugh-out-loud moments; it's a testament to her bravery as she aligns with the Aftermath Foundation, steadfast in aiding others to break free from Scientology's grasp.The power of a hashtag or a viral video is undeniable, but when it comes to challenging Scientology's status quo, it requires a blend of audacity and innovation. Jessica Palmadessa takes us behind the scenes of her campaign to ignite a Congress petition, shrewdly capturing Scientology's influence on Capitol Hill. We'll also dive into the aftermath of a livestream event that left Scientologists scurrying from the spotlight and triggered a reduction in their Hollywood hub's activity. But every action has a reaction; Jessica's TikTok series put her in the organization's crosshairs, a stark reminder of the tightrope walked by digital activists.In our final segment, we grapple with the weighty issues of censorship and the fervor needed to champion open conversation about organizations like Scientology. Jessica's firsthand account of confronting TikTok's headquarters underscores the delicate dance of free speech in the digital age. From learning about Scientology's unexpected ties to the LAPD to the solid backing of the Beverly Hills Police, her story is one of resilience. Despite personal setbacks, such as losing her TikTok account, Jessica's spirit remains unshaken, her resolve to reveal the truth unwavering. Her tale is a rallying cry for the community's collective effort to protect the youth and shine a relentless light on the shadowy corners of Scientology.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Apr 23, 2024 • 1h 5min
Jenny Linson's Scientology Saga - Violence Allegations, Internal Struggles & Silenced Witnesses - Scientology's Executives - Jenny Linson Part #2
Send us a textUncover the tangled web of life inside Scientology with us, as we continue our multi-part series centered around Jenny Linson. My wife Claire and I take you through her journey—from viral moments to her familial Hollywood ties. We'll examine the alleged 'masturbation mission,' demystify terms like "PAC Attack," and dissect the organizational culture of the Rehabilitation Project Force. Your perception of the Sea Organization may never be the same as we traverse the humorous, the serious, and the downright bizarre stories that our audience has brought to light.The shroud of violence allegations within Scientology takes center stage in our dissection of Jenny's staunch denials on CNN, contrasting the church's narrative with that of its detractors. Tune in for a gripping discussion on the internal power struggles, the reactions to accusations against the church leader, and the experiences of women deeply enmeshed in the organization's upper echelons. We promise a compelling investigation into how these narratives collide, crafting a picture of a community fiercely protecting its own.Lastly, delve into the cloak-and-dagger world of Scientology's response to criticism, examining the orchestrated ambush of Mike Rinder and the meticulous surveillance tactics employed by the church. We'll share personal anecdotes, revealing the extent of control and capture orders, and consider the silence of former executives who've witnessed misconduct. Join us as we invite more voices to come forward, tearing down the walls of secrecy and illuminating the darker corners of this enigmatic institution.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Apr 16, 2024 • 1h 2min
Inside Scientology: Unveiling Jenny Linson's Rise and the Reign of David Miscavige - Scientology's Executives #1
Send us a textPeek behind the curtain of Scientology's top-tier with Claire and me as we unravel the enigma of Jenny Linson, a stalwart of the church's inner circle. Discover the trajectory of a woman who rose through the ranks to implement the edicts of the enigmatic David Miscavige. Our series begins with a foray into Linson's early days, her ascent to the Watchdog Committee, and an insider's perspective on the intense logistics behind the scenes of high-profile Scientology events.As the conversation steers into darker territory, we recount the climate of fear Linson navigated, charged with executing Miscavige's orders during some of the church's most controversial moments such as the Lisa McPherson case. Witness through our experiences the pressured atmosphere surrounding initiatives like the "Golden Age of Technology," and hear firsthand accounts of the violence and control that define life at the Gold Base for Sea Org members.In our final reflections, we tackle the volatility within Scientology's upper echelons, including the Linson family's brush with the Reed Slatkin Ponzi scheme and its ramifications. Our narrative continues to invite those who've witnessed the inner workings of Scientology to contribute their stories to our investigation. Join Claire and me as we promise more insightful tales from the shadowy corridors of Scientology's leadership.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...

Apr 9, 2024 • 52min
The Shadow Operative: Unveiling Eugene Ingram's Dark Role in Scientology's Surveillance Empire - Scientology Private Investigators #1
Send us a textPeel back the curtain on Scientology's clandestine world where former LAPD officer Eugene Ingram steps into the spotlight, not for heroics, but for his controversial role as a Scientology private eye. Embark on this investigative journey with us as we expose Ingram's alleged misconduct and reveal how the church's legal maneuverings shield their investigators. Discover the shocking stories from the LA Times that paint a grim picture of Ingram's underworld dealings, from fencing stolen cars to playing a part in organized prostitution rings.The saga intensifies as we uncover the audacious wiretap of Boston attorney Michael Flynn, orchestrated by Ingram under the guise of police authority. This alarming chapter in Scientology's playbook unfolds with a letter from 1985 that sets off a bombshell of privacy invasion and legal transgressions. Listen as we take apart California's wiretapping laws, explore the interconnected web of ex-officers turned PIs, and dive into the LAPD's response, led by then-Chief Darryl Gates, to the ensuing wiretapping scandal—a cautionary tale of unchecked surveillance in the '80s.Rounding out our expose, I detail a personal brush with Scientology's relentless surveillance tactics. A simple hotel visit in Hollywood escalates to a high-stakes game of pursuit with a Ford F-150, driving home the unnerving reality of being a target. The confrontation with the PI, a familiar face from my past entanglements with Scientology, lays bare the church's far-reaching grasp, as I share firsthand accounts of dodging their persistent tails. This episode doesn't just recount thrilling encounters—it's a sobering reflection on the battle for personal freedom in the face of relentless intrusion.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rss YOUTUBE PLAYLISTS: Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-e...